Getting a new setup in downhill skiing includes some very difficult decisions, but at least the bindings and boots tend to work just one way. Bindings are just a simple step-in setup, whether they’re more designed for racing, freestyle, moguls, or freeride. If you’re buying a new telemark setup, you have to decide whether you want the classic 75mm bindings and boots or the newer NTN gear, a decision that can be difficult and confusing at times.
Fortunately Voile once again has the world covered, producing a helpful video explaining the positives and negatives to both types of gear. So if you’re a longtime telemark skier trying to decide if you need to upgrade, or if you’re for some wild reason considering trying to get into telemark skiing, this video might help you make some decisions.
For complete newbies, finding the gear cheap where possible is likely a priority. In that case, though the telemark world is moving further and further away from it, the classic 75mm might provide the best options. Used gear on online market places is probably going to be 75mm. Plus the classic style creates a more snug fit between the boot and binding, and many telemark skiers believe it gives the best feel of the ski.
NTN (New Telemark Norm) gear, on the other hand, is all the new rage. Finding brand new boots and bindings with the newest technology is going to be much easier if you look for NTN. Plus there are benefits on both the uphill and downhill. NTN boots usually work with pin bindings, reducing weight on the foot as you travel uphill, while the downhill experience is described as being more responsive and more progressive. Skiers in NTN gear have described it as feeling more locked in on the downhill.
There are still positives and negatives that must be considered on both sides. There’s far more years of experience behind the 75mm bindings, but NTN bindings are arguably easer to step into than the alternative. My recommendation would be to start with the boots and go from there. Visit a boot fitter if possible. Being in the wrong boot will make your days a lot worse than being in an NTN binding instead of a 75mm binding or vice versa.